Grade: B
Portlandia is back for a second season & its premier “
Mixology” is a return to its style of absurdity & waxing poetic about Portland. Upon its return
Portlandia seems more focused than ever & while not all the skits land it is clear that they have realized they do not need to jump to absurd surrealism to try & get a laugh. The main skit of the episode centers around a mixologist at Mint played by Andy Samburg & Carrie’s attraction towards him. While they make the ploy of absurd mixology, Fred likens him to a modern day chemist, & throw in a round ball of ice as Andy’s description of the drink only gets more absurd the more he talks the real hilarity comes from Carrie. She feels so compelled by Andy’s dedication to her drink that she must answer his mixed drink with a mix tape. Other skits that land well are the return of the overly feminist bookstore & a couple that loves to pickle everything. With the return of the series & expectations more high than ever it is clear that both Carrie & Fred have answered that call & honed their craft to continue the Portland love & absurd hipster hilarity.
